British Virgin Islands "Other Islands"

Discover the Hidden Gems of the British Virgin Islands: The “Other Islands”

Tucked away in the Caribbean Sea lies the breathtaking archipelago of the British Virgin Islands. While Tortola and Virgin Gorda are well-known destinations for sailors and beach lovers, there’s another side to these islands waiting to be explored – the “other islands”. The BVI comprises 50 islands and cays, many of which remain pristine and undiscovered by mass tourism. In this post, we’ll delve into the secrets of Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, and Cooper Island, revealing where to visit, eat, stay, and experience the true essence of BVI.

Overview of the British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands offer a unique blend of Caribbean charm, world-class sailing conditions, and untouched natural beauty. Located east of Puerto Rico, these islands are characterized by lush vegetation, powder-soft beaches, and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. The islands enjoy a subtropical climate with average temperatures around 80°F year-round. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the BVI delivers an authentic Caribbean experience away from crowded resorts.

Anegada

The largest island in the BVI chain at 15 square miles, Anegada is also one of its most secluded and unique destinations. Unlike the volcanic islands in the chain, Anegada is a limestone atoll featuring pristine beaches, excellent diving and snorkeling spots, and abundant marine and bird life. The island is surrounded by a massive coral reef system, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. Anegada’s laid-back pace and minimal development preserve its authentic Caribbean character.

Places to Visit:

  • Cow Wreck Beach: A picturesque beach with clear waters perfect for snorkeling or simply relaxing. Named after a wreck of a cow ship, this beach offers excellent visibility for spotting tropical fish and sea turtles.
  • Setting Point: The northernmost point of the island offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding islands. This area is accessible by boat and provides dramatic coastal scenery.
  • Loblolly Bay: Known for its calm, shallow waters and pristine white sand, this beach is ideal for families and swimmers of all levels.
  • Bones Bight: A quieter beach perfect for those seeking solitude and spectacular sunset views over the Caribbean.
  • Flamingo Pond: An inland salt pond where flamingos and other wading birds can be observed in their natural habitat.

Diving and Snorkeling:

Anegada’s coral reef system hosts numerous shipwrecks including the Iron Bark and Paquet, making it a premier dive destination. The shallow, clear waters around the island are perfect for snorkeling directly from the beach.

Jost Van Dyke

Famous for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, Jost Van Dyke is a must-visit destination for any traveler to the BVI. This 4.5-square-mile island is home to some of the most stunning and social beaches in the Caribbean. The island maintains a strong sense of community and authentic Caribbean charm, with friendly locals eager to share island life with visitors.

Places to Visit:

  • Great Harbour: The island’s capital and main settlement offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and bars where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks. This charming waterfront village is the heart of island activity and culture.
  • White Bay: A secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand perfect for snorkeling or simply soaking up the sun. White Bay is famous for its beach bars and the iconic Soggy Dollar Bar, which serves frozen painkillers.
  • Sandy Cay: A tiny uninhabited island just offshore from White Bay, accessible by swimming or short boat ride. This postcard-perfect spot features pristine sand and excellent snorkeling.
  • Little Harbour: A quieter alternative beach with stunning coastal views and fewer crowds than White Bay.
  • Diamond Cay: An offshore islet offering excellent snorkeling opportunities and views back toward the main island.

Beach Culture:

Jost Van Dyke’s beaches are famous throughout the Caribbean as social gathering spots where locals and visitors mingle freely. The island has a strong boating culture, with many yachts anchoring offshore.

Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda, meaning “Fat Virgin” in Spanish, is the second-largest island in the BVI at approximately 8 square miles. The island features dramatic granite boulders, sheltered beaches, and upscale resorts alongside rustic charm. Unlike busier Tortola, Virgin Gorda offers a more relaxed, upscale experience with natural attractions as its main draw.

Places to Visit:

  • The Baths: One of the Caribbean’s most iconic natural attractions, The Baths feature massive granite boulders creating hidden caves, grottos, and natural pools. Crystal-clear water surrounds the rocks, making for unforgettable swimming and snorkeling.
  • Devil’s Bay National Park: Adjacent to The Baths, this protected area offers hiking trails with panoramic views of nearby islands and pristine beaches.
  • Savannah Bay: A long, quiet beach with calm waters ideal for swimming and featuring excellent sunset views.
  • Spring Bay: A more secluded beach with a small version of The Baths’ rock formations, offering privacy without the crowds.
  • Gorda Peak: The highest point on the island providing 360-degree views of the BVI and surrounding islands.

Island Character:

Virgin Gorda maintains a peaceful, upscale Caribbean atmosphere with excellent dining options and resorts catering to visitors seeking comfort with authentic island experience.

Cooper Island

Tucked away between Tortola and Virgin Gorda lies Cooper Island, a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. This small island is known for its beautiful beaches, excellent snorkeling spots, and marine conservation efforts.

Places to Visit:

  • Cooper Bay: A secluded beach with clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
  • Copper Mine Point: Historic ruins of a 19th-century copper mine site with interpretive signage explaining the island’s mining history.
  • Manchioneel Bay: A sheltered bay popular with sailors and snorkelers offering calm waters and good marine life viewing opportunities.

Where to Eat

When in the BVI, be sure to try some of the delicious local cuisine. Here are some recommendations:

Anegada:

  • Anegada Beach Club: Located on Anegada, this beachfront restaurant serves up fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes in a casual beach setting.
  • Neptune’s Treasure: A local favorite offering lobster, fish, and conch in authentic Caribbean preparations with views of the ocean.

Jost Van Dyke:

  • De’Silva’s Bar & Grill: Located in Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke, this popular bar and grill serves up local favorites like conch fritters and BBQ ribs with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
  • Soggy Dollar Bar: Famous beach bar at White Bay known for the frozen painkillers cocktail and fresh fish lunch specials.
  • Foxy’s Tamarind Bar: A legendary beach bar in Great Harbour featuring live music, BBQ, and an authentic Caribbean nightlife scene.

Virgin Gorda:

  • The Crawl: Seafront restaurant offering fresh Caribbean dishes with an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients and stunning water views.
  • Olives Bar & Bistro: Upscale dining option with Mediterranean-influenced dishes and an excellent wine selection.

Cooper Island:

  • Cooper Island Beach Club Restaurant: Beachfront dining with fresh seafood and tropical beverages in a relaxed island setting.

Where to Stay

For a truly immersive experience, consider staying on one of the other islands. Here are some recommendations:

Anegada:

  • Anegada Beach Club: Located on Anegada, this beachfront resort offers comfortable rooms and suites with stunning views of the ocean and easy beach access.
  • The Anegada Reef Hotel: Beachfront property with modern amenities and authentic island atmosphere near Cow Wreck Beach.

Jost Van Dyke:

  • Jost Van Dyke Island Hotel: Located in Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke, this hotel offers cozy rooms and a relaxed atmosphere with local hospitality.
  • Sandy’s Rentals: Beach cottage accommodations offering a more local experience with kitchen facilities.

Virgin Gorda:

  • Mahoe Bay: Eco-friendly resort near The Baths with tent-style rooms and a focus on sustainability and natural beauty.
  • Bitter End Yacht Club: All-inclusive resort accessible primarily by boat, offering luxury accommodations and water-based activities.
  • Guavaberry Spring Bay: Intimate resort with private beachfront cottages near The Baths and Spring Bay.

Cooper Island:

  • Cooper Island Beach Club: Small, intimate resort with beachfront rooms and a focus on snorkeling and diving experiences.

Activities

The BVI offer a wide range of activities for all interests. Here are some recommendations:

Water-Based Activities:

  • Snorkeling: Explore the crystal-clear waters and spot an array of marine life. The Baths at Virgin Gorda, Cow Wreck Beach on Anegada, and Cooper Island offer world-class snorkeling.
  • Diving: Discover the islands’ best dive sites, including shipwrecks like the Paquet and Rhone, and pristine coral reefs.
  • Sailing: The BVI is considered one of the world’s premier sailing destinations with protected anchorages and consistent trade winds.
  • Fishing: Deep-sea and light-tackle fishing opportunities for those seeking to test their skills against tarpon, grouper, and other species.

Land-Based Activities:

  • Hiking: Trail systems on Virgin Gorda including Gorda Peak offer elevated views of the entire island chain.
  • Beach Exploration: Each island offers unique beach experiences from crowded social spots to secluded coves.
  • Cultural Tours: Visit local artisan studios and historic sites to learn island history and traditions.
  • Kayaking: Explore mangrove systems and shallow bays on kayaks for intimate marine encounters.

Seasonal Activities:

  • Full Moon Parties: Beach celebrations held during full moons, particularly famous on Jost Van Dyke.
  • Festival Events: Various cultural festivals throughout the year showcase local music, food, and traditions.

Travel Tips

When visiting the other islands in BVI, be sure to:

  • Pack strategically: Light clothing, comfortable water shoes, and layers for air-conditioned spaces.
  • Sun Protection: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a hat for protection from intense Caribbean sun.
  • Respect Local Culture: Respect customs and traditions, especially when interacting with islanders. Photography of people requires permission.
  • Transportation: Ferries connect main islands; small inter-island ferries serve Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, and Virgin Gorda. Private boat charters offer flexibility.
  • Best Time to Visit: November to April offers calm seas and pleasant weather; May to October brings occasional rain and higher humidity.
  • Currency: The US dollar is accepted everywhere; credit cards are accepted at most establishments though some local spots prefer cash.
  • Island Time: Allow extra time for activities; the relaxed Caribbean pace means schedules are flexible and spontaneity is encouraged.

Conclusion

With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and warm people, the British Virgin Islands are a true Caribbean gem. By venturing off the beaten path to Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, and Cooper Island, you’ll experience the true essence of these islands—unspoiled beaches, vibrant culture, world-class water sports, and unforgettable memories. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, the BVI delivers an authentic Caribbean experience that lingers long after your return home.